Proverbs 13:10

The book of Proverbs gives us a lot of instruction on a lot of different subjects. One subject that can keep us in God’s wisdom is Godly Follower-ship. Who we follow; where we follow; how we follow are all spoken about in Proverbs. Here is one of them about taking advice:

Proverbs 13:10 (ESV)

By insolence comes nothing but strife,

but with those who take advice is wisdom.

This is a contrasting proverb. The second line is the contrast to the first. When someone gives you advice, especially when your mind is already made up and you know what you are talking about, how do you respond? This proverb tells us that people who show Godly wisdom can “take advice” verses those who are guided by pride. You can tell the spiritual growth of someone based upon their ability to hear, listen and take the advice of those around them. Leadership that doesn’t take advice is grounded in pride, not in Godly wisdom. Follower-ship that can’t listen to the advice of their leaders is wrapped in pride. Wisdom allows you to take advice, while pride breeds quarrels. Those who take advice will be able to stop quarrels before they start. That is spiritual maturity. Those who stomp off and don't listen show their pride.  This proverb tells us that wisdom can be found in the counsel we get from others.  Just a couple of chapters ago, Solomon told us about counselors in our lives:

Proverbs 11:14

Where there is no guidance the people fall,

But in abundance of counselors there is victory.

God speaks to us through the voices of others.  We must always compare what they say to us with Scripture, but that is how God has often talked to those in His family.   Some times we don't listen to them, however.   In 2 Samuel 24 Joab tries to talk King David out of taking a census of the people.  Joab knew it was out of pride (insolence) in David's heart.   David didn't listen and God disciplined the nation for his arrogance.   Sometimes we shouldn't listen.   In Acts 21:10-13 we read about the prophet Agabus giving Paul and others a warning that if Paul were to go to Jerusalem it could be dangerous and cost him his life.   Since Paul was already told by God through the Spirit to go to Jerusalem and dying for Christ was already part of his commission, Paul ignored the "counsel" of Agabus.    Counsel that gives us wisdom that points us to the character of God ought to be followed.  Counsel that directs us away from God ought to be ignored.   But, wisdom is available in Godly counsel.